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The Best Tours & Activities on the Big Island

The Big Island of Hawaii is a geological marvel that offers experiences you simply can’t find anywhere else in the Hawaiian Islands. From active volcanoes and black sand beaches to world-class snorkeling and the only dinner cruise in the region, this island delivers adventures that range from serene to spectacular. What sets the best tours apart isn’t just their destinations—it’s their ability to showcase the island’s raw beauty while prioritizing safety, authenticity, and unforgettable moments.

 

super raft with passengers cruising near lush green mountains under a blue sky on a snorkel tour in hawaii

What is the #1 Thing to Do on the Big Island?

Explore the Big Island’s Incredible Marine Life

The Big Island is a world-class destination for ocean lovers—home to crystal-clear waters, thriving coral reefs, and protected marine sanctuaries you won’t find anywhere else. There are so many opportunities for some of the world’s best marine life encounters.

Body Glove Hawaii is your trusted expert for experiencing it all. Our top-rated tours make it easy to explore the island’s vibrant underwater ecosystem—from snorkeling at pristine locations to watching dolphins and seasonal humpback whales.

Experience encounters with Hawaiian green sea turtles, endemic reef fish, and more. Our cruises connect you with the Big Island’s marine wonders safely, comfortably, and with plenty of aloha.

Body Glove offers many top-rated ways to experience the Big Island’s underwater world. Here are two favorites:

  • Super-Raft Snorkel Tour provides intimate access to pristine locations like Kealakekua Bay Marine Sanctuary. The super-raft design reaches remote spots that larger vessels can’t access, giving you exclusive encounters with tropical fish, Hawaiian green sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs in waters so clear you can see 100+ feet down.
  • The Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch is Body Glove’s most popular tour for good reason. This smooth catamaran experience takes you to multiple pristine snorkeling destinations along the Kona Coast, where you’ll explore vibrant coral reefs and swim alongside tropical marine life. The adventure includes a freshly prepared BBQ lunch served onboard, making it the perfect combination of underwater exploration and relaxation on the water.

Thanks to the island’s unique geography, the west coast enjoys calm, clear waters nearly year-round—making marine exploration safe, easy, and unforgettable for all ages.

Ready to dive into your Big Island adventure? Body Glove has been creating unforgettable ocean memories for over four decades—let us show you why these waters are truly magical.

 

Sunset over a volcanic crater emitting bright lava and smoke with a colorful sky in hawaii volcanoes national park

What Are Some Must-Do Activities on the Big Island of Hawaii?

For first-time visitors wondering “What should I do on my first visit to Hawaii?”, these five experiences will give you the best overview of what makes the island so special:

  • Volcano discovery at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
  • Whale watching during humpback season (December through April) 
  • Touring Kona’s legendary coffee farms
  • Stargazing atop Mauna Kea or from the visitor center
  • Manta ray night diving – an otherworldly encounter found nowhere else

 

Person snorkeling above vibrant coral reef with colorful fish in clear blue water.

What’s the Best Snorkel Tour on the Big Island?

Experience an exhilarating small-group snorkeling adventure on the Body Glove Super-Raft Snorkel Tour. This standout tour takes you to remote and pristine snorkel sites aboard a fast, custom-designed super-raft.

Why it stands out:

  • Exclusive access to remote snorkeling sites away from crowds
  • Smaller group sizes for personalized attention
  • Premium locations including Kealakekua Bay’s protected marine sanctuary
  • Expert guides who ensure both safety and marine life spotting success

If you’re looking to DIY a snorkel adventure, the Big Island’s accessible coastline offers endless exploration opportunities. Check out our guide to the top 10 snorkeling spots in Kailua-Kona where locals go to escape the crowds and find the island’s most vibrant marine life.

The Big Island’s Best snorkeling seasons: April through October offer the calmest conditions, though the Big Island’s protected west coast provides excellent year-round opportunities.

 

drinks and a salad on a unique hawaii tour - a historical dinner cruise

Are There Any Unique or Exclusive Tours on the Big Island?

Body Glove Dinner Cruise is the only dinner cruise on the Big Island! This exclusive experience combines gourmet dining with spectacular sunset views from Kailua-Kona’s pristine waters.

The experience includes:

  • Chef-prepared dinner featuring local ingredients and island-inspired cuisine
  • Intimate atmosphere perfect for anniversaries, proposals, or romantic celebrations
  • Historical narration down the coast to Kealakekua Bay
  • Marine Life sightings, including seasonal whale watching (December through April) as an added bonus

Booking tip: Reserve at least two weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons (December-March and June-August).

 

family on paddleboard and swimming in ocean, with greenery in background in Hawaii

What Are the Best Family-Friendly Activities on the Big Island?

Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or grandparents, the Big Island makes it easy to keep everyone entertained. Its mix of natural wonders, cultural sites, and low-impact adventures means you can build a trip that’s both fun and enriching—without the stress. From gentle beach days to hands-on volcano explorations, the Big Island transforms into a family adventure playground where travelers of every age can find something they enjoy.

  • Gentle beach days at Hapuna Beach State Park’s white sand shores or easy snorkeling at Kahaluʻu Bay
  • Easy waterfall hikes to Rainbow Falls (a quick 15-minute walk) and ʻAkaka Falls (paved trail through lush forest)
  • Cultural experiences at Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
  • Wildlife viewing, including watching Hawaiian green sea turtles sunbathing at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
  • Educational volcano tours at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, with kid-friendly ranger programs and interactive exhibits
  • Family snorkeling adventures with Body Glove’s kid-friendly tours that include flotation devices, snorkel instruction, and access to calm, protected waters perfect for young swimmers—discover more family activities in our comprehensive family-friendly guide to Kona.

 

Two boats sailing along the hawaiian coast

What’s the Best Way to See the Big Island?

 

By Boat

Body Glove Super-Raft Sunset Cruise offers the most intimate way to experience the Big Island’s dramatic coastline. The super-raft design creates a more personal atmosphere than large tour boats, with unobstructed views and the ability to get closer to marine wildlife.

Highlights include:

  • Golden hour photography opportunities along the Kona Coast
  • Possible dolphin encounters in their natural habitat
  • Refreshments and local stories from knowledgeable crew members
  • Weather protection with covered seating options

 

From the Air

Soaring above the Big Island reveals landscapes that seem almost extraterrestrial; this is the only place on Earth where you can fly over active lava flows while spotting whales in the ocean below.

  • Active volcano flights over Kilauea’s glowing lava lake
  • Waterfall tours showcasing Hilo’s dramatic cascades from above
  • Doors-off photography flights for professional-quality shots
  • Fixed-wing options offering longer flight times at lower costs

 

By Car

Exploring the Big Island by car makes the journey itself the destination. In just an afternoon, you can experience a remarkable range of climate zones, from lush tropical beaches to humid rainforests and arid volcanic terrain.

  • Coffee farm tours along the scenic Mamalahoa Highway
  • Cultural sites including ancient Hawaiian temples and historical parks
  • Scenic drives like the Hamakua Heritage Corridor with multiple waterfall stops

 

hike to waipio valley on the big island of hawaii

What Are the Best Adventures on the Big Island of Hawaii?

For Experienced Hikers

  • Mauna Kea Summit Trek: Climb from 9,200 to 13,796 feet on this challenging, high-altitude hike. You’ll need warm layers, acclimatization time, and 4WD transport—but the reward is standing above the clouds with panoramic views and world-class observatories.
  • Waipiʻo Valley Hike: Descend 800 feet into the sacred “Valley of the Kings.” The steep trail is tough, but leads to black sand beaches, wild horses, and secluded waterfalls—an unforgettable glimpse of old Hawaiʻi.

For All Skill Levels

  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Kealakekua Bay: Paddle calm, clear waters rich with marine life and history. Great for beginners, with scenic views and potential dolphin sightings.
  • Kayaking to Hidden Coves: Explore lava tubes, sea caves, and remote snorkeling spots along the Kona Coast. Keep an eye out for monk seals and green sea turtles.
  • Deep-Sea Fishing Charters: Look for marlin, tuna, mahi-mahi, and more in world-famous fishing waters. Many boats offer half-day or full-day trips, and some will even cook your catch onboard.
  • Manta Ray Night Snorkel: Float under the stars as giant manta rays glide inches below you in an otherworldly, light-filled ballet. No dive certification needed, just a sense of wonder.
  • Super-Raft Adventure Charters: Design your perfect Big Island adventure with Body Glove’s exclusive super-raft charters. Whether you want to explore secluded snorkeling spots, search for dolphins and whales, or create a custom sunset experience, these private tours offer the ultimate flexibility.

 

When Is the Best Time to Book Tours on the Big Island?

Seasonal Considerations

  • Dry season (April-October): Ideal for water activities and summit hikes, with calmer ocean conditions and clearer skies.
  • Wet season (November-March): Better for waterfall viewing and whale watching, though some tours may face weather-related cancellations.
  • Peak seasons: Christmas/New Year and summer months require booking 2-4 weeks in advance.

Planning Your Itinerary

  • Water activities: Allocate 2-3 days for snorkeling, sunset cruises, and marine adventures
  • Land exploration: Reserve 2-3 days for volcano visits, cultural sites, and hiking
  • Transportation tip: Many tour operators provide pickup from major resort areas, eliminating driving stress

 

catamaran cruise ast sunset on the coast of the big island

What Should You Know Before Booking Big Island Tours?

How Do I Choose the Right Tour for My Trip?

  • For Families: Look for tours that are educational, shorter in length, and designed with safety and younger participants in mind.
  • For Couples: Seek out more intimate experiences like sunset cruises, private snorkeling excursions, or tours that include a romantic dinner.
  • For Thrill-Seekers: Focus on high-energy activities like helicopter tours, rugged hikes, or water sports that offer a bit of a thrill.
  • For First-Time Visitors: Look for a trusted company with standout options, like dinner cruises, unique snorkel spots, or small-group tours that help you see more with less hassle.

Essential Booking Considerations

  • Weather policies: Most reputable operators offer full refunds for weather cancellations
  • Group sizes: Smaller groups typically provide better experiences and personalized attention
  • Physical requirements: Always review fitness levels and age restrictions before booking

 

Tourist Best Practices in Hawaii

  • Respect cultural sites: Never climb on ancient structures or remove rocks from sacred areas.
  • Protect marine life: Don’t touch coral, come closer than 10ft. to turtles, or use harmful sunscreens near reefs.
  • Follow safety guidelines: Ocean conditions change rapidly—always heed local warnings and lifeguard advice.
  • Choose authentic experiences: Research operators with genuine local connections rather than generic tourist traps. If you’re staying at a resort, be sure to leave and explore beyond it!

Ready to Book Your Adventure?

From lava landscapes to ocean sunsets, the Big Island delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn. Whether you’re snorkeling in remote reefs, dining at sea, or learning about volcanoes, the right tour will shape your trip in the best way possible.

For unique, expertly guided tours that make the most of your time on the island, Body Glove Hawaii is a trusted choice.

 

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